UNIVERSAL SALVATION edited by Robin Parry and Chris Partridge and reviewed by Dr. Tony Stone.

 

Throughout the last decade the debate on Universal Salvation, or Ultimate Reconciliation, has occupied the minds of many Bible scholars, and become a challenge to many theologians when pressed by their students and audiences for a response to the view held by champions of the concept.

 

Many books have been written for and against Universal Salvation, many of them being extremely critical of their opponents' position. This book is most refreshing in that in one volume it contains the views of both sides of the argument, and throughout it is written without undue criticism of those holding opposing views, each with a remarkable civility to the other.

 

The book presents clear and well-documented contributions from scholars holding distinctly different views on the subject. The issue is debated from three main angles. First from a Theological viewpoint, then a look at its Philosophical merit and finally from a Historical standpoint. It opens with a rigorous defence of Universalism from Christian Philosopher, Thomas Talbott who is also given the final word in the last chapter of the book where he gives his answer to some of the material put forward by those presenting an opposing view in the middle chapters of the book.

 

Reading this book for myself was a refreshing experience. I had struggled with the issue of Universal Salvation over forty years ago when I was still in the very early days of ministry. After reading all the books I could obtain on the subject, I went through a personal struggle that was largely influenced by a genuine love for people that created an emotional response; I desired that all would be saved and had an ever increasing conviction that the supreme sacrifice on the Cross for our sins, demanded a response from the individual heart. I emerged from that struggle rejecting the view of the Universalists. Reading this book gave me a greater understanding of both views and was therefore extremely enlightening.

 

The chapters on the History of Universalism were particularly helpful. Tracing the doctrine from the aspect of Christian Theology and the Evangelical Tradition it gives the reader a great understanding of the impact this particular teaching has had over many years. The information gives much insight into the effects the teaching has had on churches right across denominational divides.

 

This book is a scholarly work. It contains a lot of research and demands much concentration and a willingness to be challenged if the reader is to profit from its pages. This is not a book for the casual reader but a real asset to those with a thirst for learning and a desire to be able to 'give a reason for the hope that is within them'. It will be of great value to Pastors and Teachers who are prepared to examine both sides of a current issue and get involved in the ensuing debate as well as equipping themselves to be able to answer some of the searching questions that arise from their listeners and church attenders. I thoroughly recommend it as a worthwhile addition to the bookshelf of all open-minded seekers after truth.

 

Published by Paternoster Press

291 pages paperback.

Price £14.99

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